Water Tower Cinema in Montgomeryville is entering an exciting new chapter. New ownership is preparing a $1.5 million upgrade that aims to combine modern comforts with the theater’s familiar charm. Moviegoers can expect premium seating, refreshed interiors, better concessions, and more. The best part? The theater will remain open during renovations.
If you love catching a film locally, this transformation is one to watch. In this article, you’ll learn who is behind this change, what exactly is coming, when it will happen, and how it might reshape your cinema experience.
Who Is Behind The Purchase Of Water Tower Cinema?
The new operator is Flagship Premium Cinemas, in partnership with The Goldenberg Group. Flagship is a mid-Atlantic theater chain with locations in multiple states. Goldenberg already owns the property and will continue that role.
Here’s the thing: Flagship will keep the existing staff and honor all current gift cards and tickets. So, for patrons, this change should feel smooth and familiar at first.
What Renovations & Upgrades Are Planned?
Renovations will happen in phases over 18 months, allowing parts of the theater to stay open. The first phase focuses on the exterior, lobby, snack bar, and the largest auditorium. Later phases will upgrade the remaining auditoriums one by one.
What Does Planned Upgrades Include?
- Luxury heated recliners are available in many theaters
- Modern concession counters and a wider variety
- A fresh interior design that blends cozy and modern styles
- Self-serve popcorn and drink stations
Also, there will be minor closures (e.g. Wednesday, Thursday) during the transition.
Why Is The Renovation Significant For The Community?
Water Tower Cinema is more than a theater; it’s part of the local entertainment fabric.
In the 5-mile radius around Water Tower Square, over 143,000 residents live nearby.
The daytime workforce in that area exceeds 116,000 people. With such numbers, a high-quality cinema offers strong value and foot traffic for the whole shopping hub.
It can further boost nearby businesses, restaurants, shops, and services by bringing more visitors.
Local supporters have long called the theater “Eric 7,” a name tied to its heritage. The upgrade honors that legacy while bringing modern expectations.
How Will Moviegoers’ Experience Improve?
- First, imagine comfort. Heated recliners mean long films feel cozy.
- Then, concessions: more snack options, self-serve stations, faster service.
- Also, ambience will be cleaner, brighter, more inviting.
- Technology and layout upgrades will help with ease of moving around.
- Additionally, even during upgrades, the theater remains open. So regular movie nights continue.
That means you don’t lose access while the change is underway.
When Can You Expect These Changes To Take Effect?
Flagship takes over operations in October. From that point, renovation phases begin in stages over 18 months. Some closures are scheduled midweek to allow key renovations.
No exact reopening date is set for full completion yet. But as each auditorium is finished, it will reopen.
What Should Current Patrons Know?
Gift cards and existing tickets will remain valid under the new ownership. Staff will be retained, so familiar faces may still be there. The theater may close briefly on certain days for the transition. Expect a mix of old charm and new features during the phased switch.
Final Words
The transformation of Water Tower Cinema Montgomeryville marks more than a simple upgrade; it’s a fresh promise to local movie lovers. With premium recliners, modern concessions, and a warm, community-driven atmosphere, the theater is stepping into a new era while keeping its familiar charm. For Montgomeryville residents, it means better comfort, better quality, and the same local spirit.